TNT makes key $1.8 billion decision for NBA Package bid
Earlier this summer, the NBA worked out a new media deal with multiple new networks. Following recent developments, one former network could end up staying in the picture.
When the league worked out its new deal, TNT was not among the networks slated to broadcast games moving forward. However, they have matched Amazon's bid, which came in at just under two billion dollars. With TNT deciding to match the offer, the NBA will have to reportedly pick between the two.
TNT keeping broadcast rights moving forward would be a huge win for fans. When the new deal was first announced, many thought it meant the end of the award-winning show "Inside the NBA."
No matter what happens, the show will have to make some changes to its panel in the future. Hall of Famer Charles Barkley stated earlier this year that the 2024-25 season will be his last as an analyst.
In regards to the league's new media deal, it will not officially take place until the 2025-26 season.
TNT releases statement regarding NBA media rights bid
Following the news that TNT decided to match Amazon's big, the network put out a statement regarding their standing with the league. They're looking to hopefully keep what has been a long and successful relationship with the NBA.
“We’re proud of how we have delivered for basketball fans by providing best-in-class coverage throughout our four-decade partnership with the NBA. In an effort to continue our long-standing partnership, during both exclusive and nonexclusive negotiation periods, we acted in good faith to present strong bids that were fair to both parties,” TNT said.
Since the league saw a massive boom in popularity in the 1980s, TNT has been a long-term home for them. If they're unable to maintain their media rights, it will end a relationship that spanned nearly 35 years. TNT first began airing professional basketball games back in 1989.
TNT did everything they could to try and keep themselves in the mix. Now, all they can do is wait. Seeing that they were able to match Amazon's massive bid, their history with the league could play in their favor. The two sides have had continued success over a span of decades. Because of this, the league should be in no rush to make a drastic change.
TNT and Amazon are very different networks, leaving the league with a tough decision. They could ride it out with the notable TV station, or embrace the future and go with a streaming service.